Heel fat pad syndrome occurs when the natural cushioning under the heel becomes thinned, displaced, or less effective. The fat pad is designed to absorb shock during walking and standing. When it loses integrity, the heel bone is exposed to increased pressure. This often leads to deep, bruise-like pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities, especially when walking barefoot or on hard surfaces. Aging, repetitive impact, obesity, prior heel injury, and improper footwear are common contributing factors. Symptoms may feel similar to plantar fasciitis, but the pain is usually centered directly under the heel rather than along the arch. Management focuses on protecting and supporting the heel. Wearing cushioned shoes, heel cups, orthotics, and activity modification can help reduce stress on the area. Addressing walking mechanics and avoiding thin-soled shoes are also helpful. If heel pain continues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Picking the right running shoes is essential for comfort, injury prevention, and performance. The outsole is the bottom layer of the shoe, and provides traction durability and grip on different surfaces. The midsole sits above the outsole and offers cushioning, shock absorption, and stability during each step. Some running shoes include a carbon plate which adds propulsion energy return and efficiency for faster running. The tread pattern affects how the shoe grips the ground and can influence control on roads, trails, or tracks. Choosing the right combination of factors depends on foot type, gait, and running goals. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, movement patterns, and training needs to recommend proper footwear or custom inserts. If you have foot pain from running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on the right shoes to wear for your running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A tailor’s bunion, also known as a bunionette, develops at the base of the small toe when the 5th metatarsal bone shifts outward. This condition may be caused by inherited foot structure, repetitive pressure, or tight footwear that crowds the toes. Symptoms include aching pain, swelling, and irritation on the outside of the foot, along with signs such as redness, callus formation, and tenderness. The area may look like a small bony bump and can feel sore or burning, especially when wearing narrow shoes or walking for long periods. Over time, discomfort may interfere with daily activities. A podiatrist can help by starting with a careful examination and imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess bone alignment. Treatment usually begins with footwear changes, padding, and custom orthotics, and may progress to medications, targeted exercises, or corrective procedures when conservative care does not provide relief. If you have a painful tailor’s bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a key role in walking, running, and pushing off the foot. Injury occurs when this structure becomes irritated, weakened, or overstressed over time or through sudden strain. Common causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, poor footwear, abrupt increases in activity, or a biomechanical imbalance within the foot and ankle. Symptoms often include soreness or stiffness near the heel, tenderness along the tendon, swelling, and discomfort that worsens with movement or first steps in the morning. Some people also notice thickening of the tendon or reduced strength. Treatment focuses on reducing strain and supporting healing. Options may include rest, stretching, activity modification, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, targeted exercises, or injections. Surgery may be considered for severe or long-standing cases. If you have ongoing pain or stiffness in the heel or tendon area, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.